Integrative Model of Human Development and Functioning, Relational Approach

The infant-caregiver relationship is the primary relationship and it creates an organising matrix, an epistemological stance that both frames the intrapsychic structure in terms of beliefs about self, others and the world.

The sense of self and ways of seeking relatedness are socially constructed and are affected by the individual's developmental history with parental figures as well as the social, cultural, political and historical contexts in which they occur.

Individuals seek satisfying relationships whilst at the same time resist change and are drawn into repeating old patterns.

Integrative psychotherapy offers a relationship with the intent to alleviate distress and facilitate growth by increasing the client’s ability to act for chance where this is desired. People resist change because of the security provided by the familiar and the internal structures created in the past help them to contain anxiety. The defences against change are seen as the child's most creative adjustment made out of intense need for relationship. It is the child's way of creating homeostasis and familiarity. The resistance is used as a clue to understanding the sense the client made both of the past and the here and now therapy hour. Thus we use this as our understanding of the past and to inform the intervention processes.

This approach to Integrative Psychotherapy conceptualises the intrapsychic process as having been created in an interpersonal context (infant-caregiver).

Focus on responding appropriately and effectively to the person at the emotional, spiritual, cognitive, behavioural and physiological levels; promotion a personal growth; the dynamics and potential of human relationships with the consequent facilitation of the individual's possibilities to create more satisfying relationships.

The individual can become more responsible and be able to make more informed choices in their relationships.

If you require help and advice Counselling and Psychotherapy may be provided via Skype and FaceTime in the comfort of your home, office or any place of your choice.